The Sri Lankan nation was left numb, if not, absolutely petrified with shock and intense sorrow as the news about the untimely death of Most. Ven. Gangodawila Soma Thera was beamed through electronic media on Friday (12) evening. Needless to say, fluttering yellow flags alone amply testify how close he was to all segments of our society.

Ven. Gangodawila Soma Thera, the embodiment of Buddhist morality and paragon of virtue, emerged the champion of Sinhala-Buddhist cause as the most outstanding and controversial religious leadership in the last decade particularly because of his outspokenness and straightforwardness.

His role as the most leading Buddhist communicator of modern times, social reformer cum defender of the Sinhala-Buddhist identity and its rights, came into prominence during his series of electronic media and public discussions, debates and sermons attended.

His erudition, enriched with scientific psycho-analytical perspectives that were unfolding in our contemporary times, continued to be a beacon of hope for the common masses since his ocean of knowledge on Buddhist canons, scriptures and literature remained unchallenged, well-respected and thoroughly logical.

Lanka Daily News, 20 December 2003

Click Here to see the Photos said to be taken at the International University of Fundamental Studies (IUFS).